It will take time before Atlanta Falcons fans accept the sight of Matt Ryan wearing another uniform.
After all, he has been the franchise’s foundation for 14 seasons and has witnessed the team’s ups and downs.
He gave the team identity when Michael Vick had an abrupt end to his stint as the team’s quarterback.
The former Boston College standout became their quintessential leader, achieving individual and team success.
However, some good things come to an end and the writing was on the wall when the two sides saw different directions moving forward.
Ryan wanted a new contract but the Falcons would rather move on and not pay his $7.5 million roster bonus.
The team could have traded the veteran for a better package to help on their rebuild.
But they settled with the Indianapolis Colts because it’s the best situation for him as he plays out his career.
"It was more important for us to do right by Matt," #Falcons QB Terry Fontenot said about the compensation (3rd round pick). Acknowledged that they could have shopped him and received more.
— D. Orlando Ledbetter (@DOrlandoAJC) March 23, 2022
Atlanta Journal-Constitution beat writer for the Falcons D. Orland Ledbetter shared a quote from general manager Terry Fontenot who acknowledged that the team could have received more for Ryan.
Instead, Fontenot said, “It was more important for us to do right by Matt.”
Thus, they settled for a third-round pick in finding their longtime play-caller a new home.
Parting Gift For Ryan
The Falcons could have been selfish and chased the best package offered for their quarterback.
If that was the case, he could be playing for the Seattle Seahawks, a team that has a questionable offensive line.
Instead, the team still took care of their player on his way out by finding the best situation to compete.
The Colts are a great option thanks to a solid defense, running back Jonathan Taylor, and wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr.
More importantly, Ryan won’t have problems with protection thanks to the likes of Ryan Kelly and Quenton Nelson.
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